From Emma Darwin to W. E. Darwin [9 April 1863]

My dear William

I forgot how bad the accounts of Mary were before you left. They were however bad enough for me not to be surprized to see Lawrence arrive at tea time with the bad news that she had died that morning. The poor girls could hardly take it in & Rose has been very much dejected but I am sure she is bettere here than at home where she w^d be hearing so much about the funeral & seeing so much more grief. M^rs Hawkshaw was entirely prostrated so as not to know or understand any thing, but it seems that the certainty of the worst is better for her than doubts & she is better. I suppose out of danger. Godfrey bears it wonderfully & had the kind thought to write a little consoling note to Rose.

The baby is well—

Clark was at Cambridge going to try for a scholarship when telegraphed for.

I keep the girls till Monday when the lessons & masters will be the best thing for Rose Lawrence is a nice sensible youth & very affectionate to his sisters. Alfred is of real use & comfort being ready to play with Mab or do any thing.

Miss Ludwig came on Monday with no bad effects. Horace sticks to me when poorly & plays a great deal instructing Mab at the swing.

There never was a greater break up of the best sort of happiness. Mary never came to herself & died asleep

George goes to refresh his brains by a play in London & up to Cambridge on Monday.

Hen. was going to the ball with with ten young men, from High Elms but of course that can't be now, but it w^d have been jolly enough